[Jay03GT]

Hello everyone. First off I'll introduce myself, name is Jay. I'm starting my first saltwater tank and am looking for advice/critique. I've spent the last few weeks reading as much as I can all over the net, trying to absorb as much info as I can.

I bought a 120 AGA dual overflow tank with a stand and hood. I also picked up a Nova Extreme T5 light setup, 8X54W.

I plan on building my own sump/overflow/refugium. I plan on a DSB with some liverock and cheato in the 'fuge. I'm looking at a Magdrive12 for a return pump, with a T back to the sump if it proves too much (or will it not be enough?). I'm also looking at either a Euroreef RS135 or an ASM G-3 for a skimmer. Are these good choices and adequately sized? I don't mind spending a bit more for a superior product. I also plan on making a spraybar like I've seen on the forum here, it looks like a great idea! I'll make up the rest of the flow with powerheads as needed.

What are some good test kits? The Salifert seems kinda rediculous in that you have to piece it together. Is it worth the investment? I'll probably put 2 heaters in the sump, dual 200W maybe? What else am I gonna need here?

Eventually the plan is to stock the tank with some clowns, an anemone or 2, and some corals. I'm not sure exactly what yet as I'm still researching. With that light setup what would you guys/gals recommend? OK, this is getting too long so I'll stop. Thanks for any help.

[jvharding]

Sounds like your off to a good start. A 300 watt titanium heater should do the trick keep it in your sump. The mag 12 should be fine with out the T AGA mega flow will handle it fine. Most herre will tell you to buy the best skimmer you can afford the 2 skimmers you listed are decent for your system. Sera has a reef master test kit that I think is ok, but lacks in some areas but is a full featured kit.
I realy like Fast Test Kits they have a Reef Master Kit that is very easy to use.

Aquarium System Instant Ocean Reef Master Test Kit Product Information


Master Test Kits | Aquarium Test Kits & Refills

[Tonz of fun]

Im confused JV both those links had multiple kits. Was this the one you liked? Reef Master Test Kit | Master Test Kits | Test Kits & Refills | Aquarium - ThatPetPlace.com

[jvharding]

Originally Posted by Tonz of fun

Im confused JV both those links had multiple kits. Was this the one you liked? Reef Master Test Kit | Master Test Kits | Test Kits & Refills | Aquarium - ThatPetPlace.com

Oops, Yeah that's the one I like the most its the kit I use.

[Tonz of fun]

Originally Posted by jvharding

Oops, Yeah that's the one I like the most its the kit I use.

is it accurate? How complex is it? im using droppers now

[jvharding]

I have found them to be DNO! No problems I have used them for years. They have some test that use a dropper most are powder packets premeasured.

The dropper bottles a minimized in these kits!

[jvharding]

Here is what the test looks like:



The lighting is off in this photo but color chip are easy to read

[Jay03GT]

Thanks for the help JV. What do you think would be a better skimmer? Or should I go with one that is bigger?

[Tonz of fun]

Originally Posted by jvharding

I have found them to be DNO! No problems I have used them for years. They have some test that use a dropper most are powder packets premeasured.

The dropper bottles a minimized in these kits!

im half asleep and i cant figure out what dno is...

[blind1993]

TurboFlotor 5000 Shorty II 29"Protein Skimmer by AquaMedic - AquaCave

what do you guys say about the 5000 shorty turbofloater

[Tonz of fun]

Originally Posted by blind1993

TurboFlotor 5000 Shorty II 29"Protein Skimmer by AquaMedic - AquaCave

what do you guys say about the 5000 shorty turbofloater

Over priced. If your going to spend that kind of dough get a deltec

[jvharding]

Originally Posted by Jay03GT

Thanks for the help JV. What do you think would be a better skimmer? Or should I go with one that is bigger?

I like the Euro Reef Better, But I like options and ajustments. I am the Fine tune things kind of guy to my liking. The ASM is a good unit and many here like it. If your looking to save a few bucks and get a good skimmer the ASM will work fine.

[gimmito]

Euro reef or deltec for the skimmers. Although asm is alot more affordable. Salifert are usually the choice of most advanced aquarist. Two 200 watt heaters are a good idea in case one sticks (so you won't fry your tank). Wait at least 9 months for your tank to mature before adding an anemone.

[gimmito]

Check out marc's hidden treasures for diy sump projects. Also, recommended reading: the conscience marine aquarist by robert fenner

[Jay03GT]

Thanks for the replies. I've been reading nearly non-stop this weekend and came to the same conclusion about the skimmers, so a Euro-reef it is. I looked alot at Melevsreef for the sump idea.

[blind1993]

thats good you choose the euro show us some pics when u get it up and running.

[Arnold40]

DNO= dead nuts on....I am proud of myself, I finally got to answer a question....LOL

[gimmito]

Jay, I forgot to mention I have a deltec mce 600 skimmer for sale. Checkout deltecusa.com for more info.